Bulletin
High Expectations
What did Jesus think of himself?
“Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. And Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Mat. 19:21-23).
Did Jesus think that to forsake everything and follow him was worth it? Did he think he was worth this much?
I personally would not ask this of someone. The Apostle Paul did not ask this of anyone, at least not in the Bible (1Tim. 6:17-18). Try and think what it would be like for you personally to ask someone to give up all that they own, and then follow you. Most good and godly people would never ask it, but Jesus did. Most godly women and men are very aware of their own failures and faults. They measure themselves by Jesus and find themselves lacking. But if Jesus himself is actually God, he being the example, he also could more than adequately reward this man for giving up everything. Trust, is what is needed.
Now this same high expectation of giving up “everything” to follow him is also found in the book of Revelation. Jesus expects his followers to die while holding on to his name. “Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.‘ He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death.’” (Rev. 2:10-11).
Jesus expects a life sacrificed, but also offers them “a crown of life”. An exceptionally high calling, but that is matched with an exceptional place to live. We see in the book of Revelation the wonderful outcome of their faith. Those whose names are found in the book of life enter the place where “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.” (Rev. 21:4). But for those outside the city of God, “are the dogs and the sorcerers and the immoral persons and the murderers and the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying.” (Rev. 22:15). We have no middle choice. We must rise up to meet his high expectation. Does my faith and lifestyle reflect his expectations? God help us! So Let us resolve then to serve Jesus in sincerity and truth. Dan Peters
- High_ExpectationsWord_.docx (9.17 kB)
